Canvas Constructions

A series of deconstructed, fragmented canvas stretchers dismantled to mirror the fractured nature of memory and trauma. Through constructing and reworking complex canvas forms, Wienandt engages with art therapy practices and psychological research to better understand her own experiences with CPTSD while illuminating the broader realities of living with severe trauma.

September 2025 - Present

Dinner by Mel Wienandt, acrylic on sculptural canvas, depicting a peanut butter toast and whisky cup on a kitchen counter, representing trauma, created in 2025.
Jail Cell by Mel Wienandt, acrylic on sculptural canvas, depicting a lamp in a dim room by a desk with a crack, symbolizing trauma, created in 2025.
Poppy in the Wind by Mel Wienandt, acrylic on sculptural canvas, depicting a dissolving poppy flower, symbolizing trauma, created in 2025.
Spiral by Mel Wienandt, acrylic on sculptural canvas, depicting a portal with various objects floating around it, symbolizing stress, created in 2025.
Criss Cross-Applesauce by Mel Wienandt, acrylic on sculptural canvas, depicting a painted rug pattern with vomit, symbolizing trauma, created in 2025.
Drunk Driving by Mel Wienandt, acrylic on sculptural canvas, depicting a truck in fragments, symbolizing trauma, created in 2025.

‘White Out’

Highlighting the often unspoken aspects of mental health, Wienandt delves into issues that remain largely concealed—such as the high cost of medication, burnout, and dissociation. Using the visual metaphor of “white-out,” or the act of erasure, she layers white paint across each piece to symbolize society’s tendency to obscure or overwrite pivotal conversations surrounding mental health.

May 2025 - July 2025

Big Pharma by Mel Wienandt, acrylic on canvas, depicting a gum ball machine with pills, symbolizing medication inflation, created in 2025.
Escapism by Mel Wienandt, acrylic on canvas, depicting a figure listening to music in a distorted landscape, symbolizing mental health outlets, created in 2025.
Fizzle into Pixels by Mel Wienandt, acrylic on canvas, depicting hands fading into pixels, symbolizing dissociation, created in 2025.
Burnout by Mel Wienandt, acrylic on canvas, depicting a smashed lightbulb, symbolizing burnout, created in 2025.
Leash by Mel Wienandt, acrylic on canvas, depicting a figure holding a noose tied at the base of the tree, symbolizing overcoming suicide, created in 2025.
Caffeine is my Fiend by Mel Wienandt, acrylic on canvas, depicting a figure doing work with a coffee demon, symbolizing addiction, created in 2025.